Mouse models for human hair loss disorders.

Herb/Nutrient Research Links:
Echinacea||Ginseng|| Ginkgo||Milk thistle|| St. John's wort||Saw palmetto|| Bay||Bilberry|| Black cohosh||Licorice|| DHEA||Royal Jelly|| Garlic||Ginger|| Coenzyme Q10||Lutein|| rutin

DreamPharm Products:

J. Anat 2003 Jan;202(1):125-31

Mouse models for human hair loss disorders.

The outer surface of the hand, limb and body is covered by the epidermis, which is elaborated into a number of specialized appendages, evolved not only to protect and reinforce the skin but also for social signalling. The most prominent of these appendages is the hair follicle. Hair follicles are remarkable because of their prolific growth characteristics and their complexity of differentiation. After initial embryonic morphogenesis, the hair follicle undergoes repeated cycles of regression and regeneration throughout the lifetime of the organism. Studies of mouse mutants with hair loss phenotypes have suggested that the mechanisms controlling the hair cycle probably involve many of the major signalling molecules used elsewhere in development, although the complete pathway of hair follicle growth control is not yet understood. Mouse studies have also led to the discovery of genes underlying several human disorders. Future studies of mouse hair-loss mutants are likely to benefit the understanding of human hair loss as well as increasing our knowledge of mechanisms controlling morphogenesis and tumorigenesis.

Clin Exp Dermatol 2002 Jul;27(5):410-7

Alopecia areata - animal models.

Several rodent models with spontaneous and induced alopecia areata (AA), a nonscarring inflammatory hair loss disease with suspected autoimmune elements, have been identified. Of these, the C3H/HeJ mouse and DEBR rat have been most extensively used in examining AA development. Flow cytometry and micro array characterization, manipulation of inflammatory cells by in vivo cell depletion or cell receptor blockade, lymph node cell transfer between affected and unaffected rodents, and the recent use of transgenic knockout mice have given important insights into the development of AA. From our current understanding of rodent models, the development of AA relies upon a general genetic susceptibility where major susceptibility genes may be supplemented by minor disease severity modifying genes. However, the actual onset of AA, its duration, extent, and persistence in individual rodents may be modified by epigenetic factors. Rodent AA seems to be fundamentally, but not exclusively, Th1 cell mediated. Onset of disease may be dependent on several factors including the break down of the putative anagen stage hair follicle immune privilege, appropriate antigen presentation with costimulation of lymphocytes, presence of autoreactive lymphocytes, and a deficiency of functional immune system regulatory cells. Rodents have already been used in examining a variety of current AA treatments and developing new therapies with some success. With a greater understanding of AA disease mechanisms through rodent model research, improved and more specific treatment interventions may be defined.

Zhongguo Xiu Fu Chong Jian Wai Ke Za Zhi 1999 Jan;13(1):28-30

The clinical application of scalp expansion in the repair of cicatricial baldness in children

OBJECTIVE: To introduce the clinical application of the expanded graft from scalp in the repair of cicatricial baldness in children. METHODS: 45 cases with baldness following burn from 1988 to 1998 were reported. All of these patients (age ranged from 5-11 years) were treated by soft tissue expander. RESULTS: 5 cases were followed up for 1-2 years, the clinical results showed that the result from the graft of scalp expansion was satisfactory, and the long-term follow-up revealed that the hair in expended area and that in normal area was almost the same except the orientation of hair distribution had some difference. CONCLUSION: The head scalp expansion might be the first choice in the repair of cicatricial baldness following burn.

Cancer Pract 2001 Nov-Dec;9(6):283-9

Psychological sequelae and alopecia among women with cancer.

PURPOSE: This article reviews the relevant literature on treatment-induced alopecia in women with cancer and describes the development of a computer-assisted intervention to reduce distress associated with this side effect. DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM: Alopecia has been cited as the most disturbing anticipated side effect by up to 58% of women preparing for chemotherapy, with 8% being at risk for avoiding treatment. Women with cancer who experience alopecia as a side effect, compared with women with cancer and no alopecia, report lower self-esteem, poorer body image, and lower quality of life. Although physicians' recommendations are the most influential factor on cancer treatment choice, body image and effects on sexuality are the next most influential factors. A study of a computer-imaging intervention, based on concepts related to guided imagery and anticipatory grief, has been launched in an effort to aid women in coping with anticipated treatment-related alopecia. RESULTS: While we are still waiting for final data collection and analysis from the computer intervention study, the feedback thus far has been positive. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The intervention described here may prove to be effective in desensitizing women with cancer to hair loss and facilitating an adjustment to self-acceptance. As such, a higher quality of life during the difficult time of coping may be maintained. The development of a computer-imaging intervention offers an opportunity to integrate a standard psychosocial intervention, personalized for each patient, into the routine patient care in the oncology setting.

Hair Million is a blend of Asian herbs that wards off hair loss and promotes hair growth. Of various approaches to hair restoration, Hair Million offers advantages including low cost compared with other methods or drugs, and safety, as it is made of safe and healthy herbs. For scientifically proven prescription medication, check Propecia.

Related Web resources:

What is hair?

Curly Hair

Biology of hair growth and development.

The phenomenon of hair loss.

Methods and treatments for hair loss and baldness.

Drugs and hair transplantation surgery for hair loss and baldness.

Hair loss linked to other health problems.

Baldness by choice and fashion.

Alopecia info.

Alopecia treatment info.

Hair care info.

Hair loss and alopecia research articles: abstracts and source links.

DHEA has been suggested to provide numerous potential benefits. DHEA (or dehydroepiandrosterone) is converted into androgens (male hormones) or estrogens (female hormones) in the cells.

Herbs and Pharmaceuticals Online|| Best Realtor in Glendale, California: Residential Home and Commercial Property || Related Web pages || Herbs and Pharmaceuticals Online ||